Security Council authorizes force for Central African Republic

The Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing a peacekeeping force for the Central African Republic (CAR).

The 15 Council members on Thursday voted in favour of an African Union-led force which will protect civilians and restore public order.

The resolution expresses deep concern about the deterioration of security in the country and the breakdown of law and order following the ouster of the government by a rebel coalition in March.

Ambassador Gérard Araud of France, the Security Council president for December, addressed reporters after the meeting.

"The entire population is subjected to a humanitarian crisis. Thugs are killing, looting and raping on a daily basis. The Central African Republic state has collapsed and is not able anymore to ensure the protection of its own population. The conflict is now increasingly taking an inter-sectarian turn, with violence erupting between Christians and Muslims. In this context, history has taught us that the worst may happen. History has taught us that the Security Council needs to act." (37″)

Ahead of the meeting, representatives of the UN, the African Union, the European Union and France in the CAR issued a statement condemning deadly organized attacks which took place in the capital, Bangui.